Gachiakuta Volume 2
Cleaners HQ & The Raiders' Shadow
Chapters 5-13 | Story Arcs: Ground Wanderer, Workplace Observation, Raiders Trap (Beginning)
Volume Overview
Volume 2 marks a crucial transition in Rudo's journey as he moves from being a confused exile to becoming an integrated member of the Cleaners organization. This volume deepens the world-building significantly, introducing the Cleaners' headquarters, their operational structure, and the looming threat of the Raiders.
The volume opens with Rudo's tense first meeting with Zanka Nijiku, the skilled warrior assigned to train him. Their relationship begins with conflict but gradually evolves into mutual respect as Rudo proves his determination and unique abilities. Through Zanka's harsh but effective training, readers gain deeper insight into the Vital Instrument system and combat techniques essential for surviving in The Pit.
The introduction of the Raiders organization in the final chapters sets up the series' first major conflict arc, establishing them as a dangerous antagonistic force that operates with ruthless efficiency in The Pit's shadows.
Chapters
Chapter 5: "Interpersonal Relations" (対人)
Rudo's first meeting with Zanka Nijiku begins with tension and confrontation. When Rudo accidentally touches Zanka's Vital Instrument, the "Lovely Assistaff," it triggers an explosive reaction that reveals both Zanka's fierce protective nature and the sacred bond between Givers and their instruments. This chapter establishes the complex mentor-student dynamic that will define their relationship.
Chapter 6: "Dookie-ing it Out" ("大"勝負)
A humorous yet character-building chapter where Rudo faces unexpected challenges in The Pit's harsh environment. The chapter balances comedy with world-building, showing the practical difficulties of daily life in the wasteland while developing Rudo's resourcefulness and adaptability.
Chapter 7: "Cleaners HQ" (掃除屋本部)
Rudo arrives at the Cleaners' headquarters for the first time, revealing the organization's impressive scale and structure. This chapter introduces key support characters including Semiu Grier (the receptionist with analytical glasses) and Gris Rubion (the gentle giant Supporter). The headquarters serves as a safe haven in The Pit's chaos, complete with training facilities, living quarters, and strategic planning rooms.
Chapter 8: "Observation Field Trip" (ワークツアー)
The beginning of the Workplace Observation Arc. Rudo accompanies experienced Cleaners on actual missions to observe their operations firsthand. This chapter showcases different combat styles and Vital Instrument applications, introducing Riyo Reaper and her unique scissor-based fighting technique. The field trip reveals the dangerous reality of Trash Beast extermination missions.
Chapter 9: "Not At Home" (アウェイ)
Rudo finds himself in unfamiliar territory, both literally and figuratively. The chapter explores his struggles to adapt to the Cleaners' methods while maintaining his own identity and values. His unique approach to using discarded objects as temporary weapons begins to attract attention from both allies and potential enemies.
Chapter 10: "Drawing Near" (迫り来る)
Tension builds as ominous signs suggest a larger threat approaching. The chapter masterfully creates atmosphere through subtle hints and character reactions, foreshadowing the Raiders' imminent appearance. Veteran Cleaners become more cautious, and security at headquarters increases.
Chapter 11: "Getting Closer" (接近)
The threat materializes as mysterious figures begin operating in the Cleaners' territory. This chapter concludes the Workplace Observation Arc with growing unease and the realization that the Cleaners face enemies more dangerous than Trash Beasts—other humans with their own Vital Instruments and ruthless tactics.
Chapter 12: "Shadow on the Ground" (下界の影)
The Raiders Trap Arc begins. This pivotal chapter reveals the existence of the Raiders organization—a criminal group that operates in The Pit with sophisticated tactics and powerful Givers. Their methods contrast sharply with the Cleaners' protective mission, as they prioritize profit and territorial control over community welfare. The chapter establishes them as formidable antagonists.
Chapter 13: "Raiders" (荒らし屋)
The volume concludes with a direct confrontation between Cleaners and Raiders. Key Raiders members are introduced, including their Front Line fighters who demonstrate combat abilities that rival or exceed the Cleaners' best warriors. The chapter ends on a cliffhanger, with Rudo and his team facing a dangerous situation that will test everything they've learned.
Key Themes & Development
Integration & Belonging
Volume 2 explores Rudo's journey from outsider to team member. His struggle to find his place within the Cleaners mirrors the broader theme of finding value and purpose in a world that discarded him. The volume shows that belonging isn't automatic—it must be earned through effort, respect, and mutual understanding.
Mentorship & Growth
The Zanka-Rudo relationship exemplifies how harsh training and high expectations can coexist with genuine care. Zanka's tough-love approach pushes Rudo to exceed his perceived limits, while Rudo's fresh perspective challenges Zanka's established methods. Their dynamic demonstrates that growth requires both challenge and support.
Organizational Structure & Purpose
The detailed exploration of Cleaners HQ reveals how communities organize themselves for survival in hostile environments. The division between Givers and Supporters, the hierarchy of teams, and the support infrastructure all demonstrate that surviving in The Pit requires more than individual strength—it demands coordinated effort and specialized roles.
Moral Complexity
The introduction of the Raiders complicates the moral landscape. While the Cleaners protect communities, the Raiders exploit them. Yet both groups consist of people trying to survive in The Pit using the tools available to them. This volume begins questioning whether survival justifies all methods, setting up ethical dilemmas that will deepen in later arcs.
New Characters Introduced
Zanka Nijiku
Cleaners Warrior | Mentor
A master combatant from a noble family, wielding the "Lovely Assistaff." Assigned as Rudo's trainer, Zanka's harsh methods hide genuine care for his students' development and survival.
Semiu Grier
Cleaners Receptionist | Support
The intelligent receptionist whose glasses "Eyes" serve as a powerful analytical Vital Instrument, capable of assessing Giver capabilities and detecting threats.
Gris Rubion
Cleaners Supporter | Peacemaker
A gentle giant with superhuman strength who doesn't use a Vital Instrument. His peaceful nature contrasts with his imposing physical presence, making him a beloved figure at headquarters.
Riyo Reaper
Cleaners Giver | Scissor Specialist
A skilled fighter who wields salon scissors as her Vital Instrument "The Ripper," using her feet for agile, close-quarters combat with unique fighting techniques.
Impact on the Series
Volume 2 serves as the foundation for much of what follows in Gachiakuta. The world-building established here—the Cleaners' organizational structure, the variety of Vital Instruments and combat styles, the existence of rival factions—creates a rich framework that supports increasingly complex narratives.
The introduction of the Raiders is particularly significant. They represent the first major human antagonists, shifting the series from "humans vs. environment" to "humans vs. humans," which raises the stakes and moral complexity. Their presence forces the Cleaners to confront not just survival challenges but ideological conflicts about how to live in The Pit.
Most importantly, this volume establishes Rudo's support network. The relationships formed here—with Zanka, Enjin, and the other Cleaners—become the emotional core of the series. These bonds give Rudo something to fight for beyond mere survival, transforming his journey from personal revenge to protecting a community that has accepted him.